WeAreFLU: Zanisha Premilien, Class of 2020 receives 2023 True Health Scholarship

WeAreFLU: Zanisha Premilien, Class of 2020 receives 2023 True Health Scholarship

By: The Office of Giving & Advancement; Department of External Relations & Alumni Engagement

In the pursuit of higher education, Zanisha Premilien's journey took a significant turn, illuminated by the generous support of the True Health Path to True Success Scholarship. As an alumna of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.'s Future Leaders United After-School Enrichment and Mentoring program, Past President, and Junior Board Member, Zanisha stands as a testament to the program's commitment to nurturing future leaders in the community.

The Path to True Success Scholarship, facilitated by True Health, is a beacon for students aspiring to make a difference in the public service sector. Awarding four college students a one-thousand-dollar scholarship, this initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education in the healthcare/public service field.

Zanisha's journey with the scholarship began with uncertainty, as she embarked on her nursing program at Valencia College. Faced with the challenge of financing her education, she found herself in a pivotal moment at her financial advisor's office. However, destiny had a pleasant surprise in store for her – the confirmation email declaring her as one of the True Health Path to True Success Scholarship recipients.

In her own words, Zanisha expresses, "Thanks to your donation, I can continue my education at Valencia College. This scholarship is one of the most significant things that could have happened to me. It will allow me to focus solely on school now without the worry about how I will continue to pay for my education."

Zanisha's heartfelt gratitude mirrors the transformative impact of the scholarship on her educational journey. This financial support not only eases the burden of tuition but also empowers her to dedicate her full attention to the demanding four-semester nursing program. As she delves into the intricacies of healthcare, Zanisha is poised to emerge as a beacon of inspiration within her community.

The Path to True Success Scholarship, with its emphasis on community service and a commitment to students pursuing public service careers, aligns seamlessly with Zanisha's aspirations. The scholarship not only recognizes academic merit but also values leadership qualities and a dedication to serving the community.

Zanisha Premilien's success story resonates beyond her personal achievements; it embodies the essence of the Future Leaders United program and the transformative impact of community-supported initiatives. As she navigates the path to true success, Zanisha becomes a shining example of how scholarships can be a catalyst for change, enabling bright minds to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

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About The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
The United Foundation of Central Florida, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates as a public foundation focusing on early intervention leading to prevention. We address after-school needs, aim to increase our graduation rate, boost college attendance, tackle food insecurities, address the lack of affordable housing, enhance job skill sets, and reduce crime, among other objectives. Our emphasis on early intervention has been a cornerstone of our approach. Through the dedication of our Board of Directors, FLU Students, and volunteers, we have generated an economic impact of $18.3 Million for the Central Florida community. This impact translates to 163,458 hours of volunteerism and programming hours.

WeAreFLU: Gardyson Etienne, Class of 2021 joins the Progressive Black Men Chapter at Florida State University

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About The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
The United Foundation of Central Florida, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates as a public foundation focusing on early intervention leading to prevention. We address after-school needs, aim to increase our graduation rate, boost college attendance, tackle food insecurities, address the lack of affordable housing, enhance job skill sets, and reduce crime, among other objectives. Our emphasis on early intervention has been a cornerstone of our approach. Through the dedication of our Board of Directors, FLU Students, and volunteers, we have generated an economic impact of $18.3 Million for the Central Florida community. This impact translates to 163,458 hours of volunteerism and programming hours.

WeAreFLU: Shannon Biassou, Class of 2021 Joins the SISTUHS, Inc. Chapter at Florida State University

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About The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
The United Foundation of Central Florida, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates as a public foundation focusing on early intervention leading to prevention. We address after-school needs, aim to increase our graduation rate, boost college attendance, tackle food insecurities, address the lack of affordable housing, enhance job skill sets, and reduce crime, among other objectives. Our emphasis on early intervention has been a cornerstone of our approach. Through the dedication of our Board of Directors, FLU Students, and volunteers, we have generated an economic impact of $18.3 Million for the Central Florida community. This impact translates to 163,458 hours of volunteerism and programming hours.

WeAreFLU: Christie St Vil, Class of 2021 Joins Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., as Charter Member at Stetson University

Christie St Vil: A Leader Enriched by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

By: The Global Engagement & Empowerment Center: Department of External Relations & Alumni Engagement

In the hallowed halls of Stetson University, another remarkable chapter in the history of leadership and academic excellence has been etched. Christie St Vil, a distinguished alumna of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., Future Leaders United After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program, has ascended to new heights as a Charter Member of the esteemed Alpha Chi Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Her journey, marked by resilience, dedication, and a commitment to service, embodies the essence of Zeta Phi Beta’s mission.

Founded in 1920 at Howard University, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. holds a rich legacy as one of the nation's premier organizations dedicated to scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood. With a focus on academic achievement, leadership development, and community engagement, Zeta Phi Beta has continuously inspired generations of women to strive for excellence in all endeavors.

For Christie St Vil, her initiation into Zeta Phi Beta serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to academic pursuits and leadership. Graduating from the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., Future Leaders United After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program in 2021, Christie emerged as a beacon of leadership, serving as the Public Relations Coordinator during her tenure. This early exposure to leadership laid the foundation for her future endeavors at Stetson University.

Majoring in Communication & Media Studies, Christie’s academic journey was complemented by her involvement in a myriad of extracurricular activities. As a member of Zeta Phi Beta, she assumed pivotal roles such as Chapter President, Vice President, and Treasurer, demonstrating her exceptional leadership acumen and dedication to the sorority's values.

Beyond her involvement in Zeta Phi Beta, Christie’s impact extended across various spheres of campus life. From serving as a Tri-Alpha member to contributing as a Writing Center Tutor and Office of Diversity & Inclusion Office Assistant, she exemplified a holistic approach to leadership and service. Christie's roles as a BSU Director of Finance, BSU Co-Director of Alumni Relations, CSA Director of Finance, and Teaching Assistant underscore her versatility and commitment to fostering inclusive communities.

Christie St Vil’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of organizations like Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Through her tireless dedication to academic excellence, leadership development, and community service, she embodies the core principles upon which Zeta Phi Beta was founded. As she embarks on the next chapter of her journey, Christie's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to strive for greatness, leaving an indelible mark on Stetson University and beyond.

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About The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
The United Foundation of Central Florida, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates as a public foundation focusing on early intervention leading to prevention. We address after-school needs, aim to increase our graduation rate, boost college attendance, tackle food insecurities, address the lack of affordable housing, enhance job skill sets, and reduce crime, among other objectives. Our emphasis on early intervention has been a cornerstone of our approach. Through the dedication of our Board of Directors, FLU Students, and volunteers, we have generated an economic impact of $18.3 Million for the Central Florida community. This impact translates to 163,458 hours of volunteerism and programming hours.

Rotchild Dorson, FLU Class of 2018 graduates from Wake Forest University C/O 2022

Rotchild Dorson: From Future Leader to Wake Forest Graduate

By: The Global Engagement & Empowerment Center: Department of External Relations & Alumni Engagement

Rotchild Dorson stands as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and enrichment programs. A graduate of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.'s Future Leaders United (FLU) After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program in 2018, Dorson recently achieved a significant milestone by graduating from Wake Forest University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, alongside a minor in Entrepreneurship.

Dorson's journey from a participant in FLU to a graduate of Wake Forest University is a remarkable tale of perseverance, dedication, and the impact of nurturing environments. At Wake Forest, Dorson delved deep into the realms of economics and entrepreneurship, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Dorson expresses a profound gratitude towards the foundation laid by FLU. He acknowledges the pivotal role FLU played in shaping his leadership skills, fostering his entrepreneurial mindset, and instilling in him a sense of community responsibility. FLU served as the launching pad for Dorson's aspirations, providing him with invaluable opportunities to interact with leaders from diverse fields and to develop lasting relationships within his community.

Now equipped with a Bachelor's degree in Economics, Dorson is poised to embark on a path characterized by exploration and impact. His areas of interest span across economics, consulting, and entrepreneurship, where he aims to leverage his multifaceted experiences as a leader, market analyst, and investor. Dorson's vision extends beyond personal success; he envisions himself as a catalyst for positive change, striving to contribute meaningfully to the economic and social fabric of his community and beyond.

As Dorson ventures into the professional realm, he carries with him the lessons instilled by FLU – the importance of leadership, the value of networking, and the power of mentorship. He remains committed to paying forward the guidance and support he received, advocating for the empowerment of future generations through education and mentorship initiatives.

Dorson's story serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring young leaders but also to the broader community. It underscores the transformative potential of mentorship programs in nurturing talent, fostering leadership, and propelling individuals towards success. As Dorson continues his journey, his alma mater and the FLU community stand proud, celebrating his achievements and eagerly anticipating the impact he is poised to make in the world.

WeAreFLU: Melissa Monde, Class of 2021 joins Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Co-ed Business Fraternity, Inc.

Melissa Monde Inducted into Alpha Kappa Psi: Bridging Communities through Leadership

By: The Global Engagement & Empowerment Center: Department of External Relations & Alumni Engagement

Melissa Monde, a shining star in the academic and community service spheres, has added another feather to her cap by being duly-initiated into Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Co-ed Business Fraternity, Inc. Melissa's journey into this prestigious fraternity occurred through the Omega Xi Chapter, located at Florida A & M University, where she is part of the Alpha Iota Class.

Before delving into her recent accomplishment, it's essential to understand Melissa's remarkable journey and her commitment to academic excellence and community service. A graduate of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., Future Leaders United After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program, Melissa held the esteemed position of Vice President & Civic Engagement Chair. During her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a deep-rooted dedication to serving her community.

Currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration at FAMU, Melissa exemplifies what it means to be a highly motivated scholar. Her overarching objective is to foster connections within local and global communities through support, education, and social responsibility.

Throughout her time at FAMU, Melissa has been actively involved in various initiatives, showcasing her commitment to personal and professional growth. As an ATLFinance Fellow, she honed her financial acumen while gaining practical experience in the field. Additionally, her role as a Rotational Intern for Ares Management Corporation provided her with invaluable insights into the corporate world.

She is a proud member of the FAMU Chapter of Scholars in Finance, where she continues to expand her knowledge and network within the industry. Moreover, her affiliation with the National Council of Negro Women and the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society underscores her dedication to community empowerment and academic excellence.

Being inducted into Alpha Kappa Psi is a testament to Melissa's exceptional leadership qualities, academic prowess, and commitment to service. As a member of this esteemed fraternity, she will have the opportunity to further cultivate her skills, network with like-minded individuals, and make a meaningful impact in her community and beyond.

Melissa Monde's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders everywhere. Through her unwavering determination and passion for making a difference, she continues to break barriers and forge pathways towards a brighter future. As she embarks on this new chapter with Alpha Kappa Psi, there's no doubt that Melissa will continue to leave an indelible mark wherever her journey takes her.

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About The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
The United Foundation of Central Florida, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, operates as a public foundation focusing on early intervention leading to prevention. We address after-school needs, aim to increase our graduation rate, boost college attendance, tackle food insecurities, address the lack of affordable housing, enhance job skill sets, and reduce crime, among other objectives. Our emphasis on early intervention has been a cornerstone of our approach. Through the dedication of our Board of Directors, FLU Students, and volunteers, we have generated an economic impact of $18.3 Million for the Central Florida community. This impact translates to 163,458 hours of volunteerism and programming hours.

WeAreFLU: Daftne Sanchez, FLU Class of 2018, UCF 2022

WeAreFLU: Daftne Sanchez, FLU Class of 2018, UCF 2022

WeAreFLU Profile: Daftne in the UFCF - FLU Class of 2018 is a proud Trojan and is a Social Work major with a certificate in Victim Advocacy at the University of Central Florida. Recently, Daftne was selected for an Internship with Paving The Way Foundation, Inc. and has received a certification as a Home Health Aide (HHA) from Southern Tech Institute. At UCF Daftne exemplifies the traits of a servant leader as she has transitioned into several campus leadership roles such as President of the Dominican Students Association and Chair for Education and Secretary for the NAACP. Additionally, Daftne has the privilege to serve as a Lead Pre-K Teacher for La Petite Academy.

Daftne we know life at the University of Central Florida can be amazing please share with us some recent accomplishments! Let me start by saying this, time waits for no one. We must be equipped with the tools to be problem-solver in order to navigate through society. There is no such thing as a genie. You must lose the savior mindset and stop making excuses. Life is truly what YOU make it. A year ago, my mind was a fog and I became hopeless due to the pandemic. I had no idea what I was doing. A year ago, I had no idea I would have the opportunity of interning for a local non-profit organization that fights to dismantle child trafficking, tutoring children in my community, and even gain my certification as a Home Health Aide (HHA) in the process all while being a college student. Every accomplishment is an opportunity to create more!

Daftne how did Future Leaders United, if at all, prepare you for or propel you towards this achievement of becoming an intern with paving the way foundation and receiving various industry-related certifications? Who would have thought 3 years worth of my investment and participation in F.L.U that the resources, connections, and tools are still useful to me in my third year of college? There is absolutely no way I would have become the young woman that I am becoming! The truth is, I have learned more than what I have learned throughout my academic years in education. The funny part is, even as an Alumni, every time I find myself participating in the program, I still manage to learn something new. I am a better leader, student, and an improved version of myself because of the foundation that I was grounded in.

What are some other accomplishments that you have achieved while attending the University of Central Florida?

• Became a Certified Volunteer Advocate for Children (VAC) in Orange County for The Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association.

• Became Certified for Youth Mental Health by National Council for Behavior Health

• Became Certified for First Aid Assistance by National Council for Behavior Health

• Appointed to serve as Secretary for a UCF organization called "Knights For Social Justice" (KSJ).

• President of the Dominican Student Association

• Community Service Chair of the Dominican Student Association

• Education/Juvenile Justice Chair for the UCF NAACP

Daftne’s story was also featured online via News 6 Orlando WKMG ClickOrlando

Click Link to read Daftne’s Story Orlando teen once in foster care shares story after years of witnessing domestic abuse

WeAreFLU: Cherard Thomas, Class of 2018; UCF 2022

WEAreFLU: Cherard Thomas, FLU Class of 2018; UCF 2022

WeAreFLU Profile: Cherard in the UFCF - FLU Class of 2018 is a proud Trojan and is a Criminal Justice major with a certificate in Victim Advocacy at the University of Central Florida. Recently, she was inducted into the Delta Zeta Omega chapter of Lambda Alpha Epsilon Criminal Justice Pre-Professional Fraternity and was selected as a Conference Assistant with UCF Housing and Residence Life. Cherard is expected to graduate from UCF in Spring 2022.

Cherard we know life at the University of Central Florida can be amazing please share with us some recent accomplishments! This past Spring semester (Spring’21) of my Senior year, I became officially initiated into the Delta Zeta Omega chapter of Lambda Alpha Epsilon Criminal Justice Pre-Professional Fraternity here at UCF!💙🕸. Furthermore, this past May I was officially hired to work as a Conference Assistant for this summer with UCF Housing and Residence Life!

How did Future Leaders United, if at all, prepare you for or propel you towards this achievement of becoming a member of Lambda Alpha Epsilon?: Future Leaders United instilled the pride and motivation to go after all that I desire and want to improve myself academically and to be able to have a foot in the door later on I’m the future when I graduate from UCF. All the guests who entered that classroom and shared their life stories, from upbringing to their present-day successful careers encouraged me that no matter the obstacles I encounter in life and within my education, I can and will persevere to make progress because hard work always pays off in the end. I worked hard to complete all the requirements asked of me by the executive board of my fraternity and my showing up and making an effort helped me to become an official member as well as to be awarded being the “Social Butterfly” at our Spring formal event for interacting with them all the time.

To further expand on your achievements at UCF and the impact Future Leaders United had on you, how did this program prepare you to become a Conference Assistant with the University Housing? Future Leaders United instilled so much love, support, and encouragement to go after anything I desire. This program brought about so much positivity and inspiration in my academics and has pushed me to strive for greatness. FLU allowed me to be my authentic self and to be of service to others in my community. Due to this, I was part of a selected few out of so many UCF students chosen for this position and I am truly grateful that they saw something in me. I’m glad to be able to be of service to UCF residents and non-UCF residents. Thank you FLU family for all that you have done for me and will continue to do!💙💛

WeAreFLU - Angena Mathurin - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Angena Mathurin - Indelible Class of 2020

Angena Mathurin in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 at Maynard Evans High School served as the Vice President for the 2019-2020 school year. Agena attends Valencia College studying Environmental Science. She prides herself on her commitments to her community, family, the Student Leadership Council, and the Future Leaders United After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program.

Angena’s Year Recap

WeAreFLU - Shelley Bercy - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Shelley Bercy - Indelible Class of 2020

Shelley Bercy in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 and proud Trojan, the Secretary of Future Leaders United for the 2019-2020 school year. Shelley has been dedicated to her academics and her extracurricular activities. Shelley attends Valencia College majoring in Computer Science. Shelley is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society just to name a few. In Shelley’s Junior year she participated in Code Orlando, sponsored by Orlando Magic's Aaron Gordon and the Gordon Family Giving Back Foundation.

Code Orlando is a hands-on Science Technology Engineering & Math program that allows students to explore various branches of modern technology and learn how they can be future innovators in our City of Orlando. From July 8th until August 2nd, 2019 she was introduced to robotics, game and app coding, aerospace engineering and learned how big data is changing our world from sports to medicine. Shelley began working hands-on with the Orlando technology community, University labs and completed projects with a small group of students from various schools.

Seven companies and organizations exposed them how to design, develop and deploy modern technology that would assist them with their team projects and showcase their projects at Full Sail University. Aaron Gordon of the Orlando Magic actively participated, helping students with life skills such as public speaking, mindfulness and healthy living. Mentors from local colleges and business spent time the students every day, coaching, teaching and leading.

Each Evans High student in Code Orlando was awarded a $1,000.00 scholarship from the Gordon Family Giving Foundation.

WeAreFLU - Howard Williams, Jr. - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Howard Williams, Jr. - Indelible Class of 2020

Howard Williams, Jr. in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 is a proud Trojan, he served as the Treasurer & Fundraising Chair for Future Leaders United 2019-2020 School year. Howard attends the University of Central Florida majoring in Engineering. He’s remained committed to his academics

WeAreFLU - Eliallah Dadzie - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Eliallah Dadzie - Indelible Class of 2020

Eliallah Dadzie in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 who served as the Historian attends Valencia College as a Biomedical Sciences.

WeAreFLU- Samantha Baptiste - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU- Samantha Baptiste - Indelible Class of 2020

Samantha Baptiste in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 attends Orange Technical College as a medical administrative specialist major

Email: baptistesamantha572@gmail.com

Describe your recent success in detail.:  During my summer term, I was able to gain some experience working in health administration offices and was accepted to Valencia College. Upon completion of my Medical Administrative Specialist Program at OTC, I will then continue my education at Valencia College and ultimately transfer to a four-year institution after that process has been completed.

How did Future Leaders United, if at all, prepare you for or propel you towards this achievement?: Future Leaders United prepared me for this journey through their encouraging remarks and they're never giving up attitudes as they pushed me to go after what I believe in. The programming kept me on track and gave me the push that I truly needed. In this program, I also had an opportunity to learn more about my community Pine Hills. Learning more than I ever could have expected as they encouraged me to be positive and make good choices and strive to make a difference in other people’s lives.

WeAreFLU - Ayannah Bell - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Ayannah Bell - Indelible Class of 2020

Ayannah Bell in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 attends Orlando Technical College as a medical assistance program.

Email: yannabellyanna@gmail.com

Ayanna Bell, 2020 graduate of Maynard Evans High School has been a hardworking member of the Future Leaders United After-School Enrichment and Mentoring Program. She excelled in her academics.

WeAreFLU - Bryce Chery - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Bryce Chery - Indelible Class of 2020

Bryce Chery in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 attends the University of Central Florida as a Business Administration Major.

WeAreFLU - Miousnaldy Divers - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Miousnaldy Divers - Indelible Class of 2020

Miousnaldy Divers in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 attends the University of Florida majoring in Computer Science. Her GPA is 3.3 (unweighted) and 4.6 (weighted), she was rank 19 out of 522. She plans on being a Senior Software Developer at either Google or Oracle. Miousnaldy had a very busy schedule, as an IB and Elevation Student, just to name a few. But always held FLU near and dear to her heart and has shared that she personally thinks that the values that FLU holds are what sets FLU apart from other programs. The way that the program instills leadership, selflessness for your community, and reminding the students about the importance of civic duty is what causes such good people to come out of this program!. 

In addition to the scholarship that Miousnaldy has received from the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc she has received full institutional scholarships totaling $36,450.

WeAreFLU - Amanda Graham - Indelible Class of 2020

WeAreFLU - Amanda Graham - Indelible Class of 2020

Amanda Graham in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 attends Florida State University as a Biochemistry Major

WeAreFLU - Tawine Lazard, Class of 2020

Tawine Lazard in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 Valencia College as a Nursing Major

Email: tawine18@gmail.com

Describe your recent success in detail.: I was able to receive a scholarship

How did Future Leaders United, if at all, prepare you for or propel you towards this achievement?: Future Leaders United help realize the things that happening in our community.

WeAreFLU - Daline Renous, Class of 2020

Daline Renous in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 Valencia College as a Nursing Major

Email: dalinerenous.123@gmail.com

How did Future Leaders United, if at all, prepare you for or propel you towards this achievement?: Because of FLU I was able to have the determination of finishing what I had to do to get the scholarship.

Anything else you would like us to know about yourself or your accomplishment?: I was able to get accepted to my dream school (Valencia).

WeAreFLU - Michaelle Valentin, Class of 2020

Michaelle Valentin

Michaelle Valentin in the UFCF - FLU Indelible Class of 2020 Florida International University - Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Major

Email: vmichaelle23@gmail.com